Chapter 1: Peggy Sue

Introduction

• Narrator disappeared before 12th birthday, July 28, 1988.
• Story of disappearance finally told after a promise to Kensuke to wait at least ten years.
• Reason for revealing now: Kensuke’s greatness and friendship.

Early Life

• Family: mother, father, narrator (Michael), and sheepdog Stella Artois.
• Childhood described as normal and regular.
• Daily routine included school (St. Joseph’s), football with friends (Mudlarks team), and paper rounds.
• Sundays were special for family dinghy sailing.

Family Crisis

• Letter arrives, dog damages it.
• Both parents lost jobs due to brickworks closing.
• Resulting stress leads to arguments and silence at home.
• Father frequents pubs, neglects house chores, and becomes absorbed in yachting magazines.

Changes and Moving

• Eddie, narrator’s best friend, moves away.
• Family begins to fall apart.
• Mother upset after father sells car and talks of moving south.
• Emotional tension rises as father proposes relocation.

Father's New Plan

• Father finds family a new place near Southampton, by the sea.
• Mother initially resistant but eventually influenced by father's changed demeanor.
• Move is motivated by father’s mysterious plan and newfound enthusiasm.

Arrival at New Location

• Family gets off train and feels father’s renewed spirit.
• They arrive at a yachting marina to meet "Peggy Sue." Father keeps the purpose mysterious.
• Marks a turning point for the family.

Conclusion

• The narrative sets up a forthcoming adventure or revelation related to Peggy Sue and the father's intention for moving.
• Highlights themes of family dynamics, childhood innocence, and mysterious new beginnings.